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Kites and spirits soared Sunday

Ruidoso News
Published 12:52 p.m. MT Sept. 27, 2016

Colorful parasails showed up for some practice time Sunday, exercising some of the control techniques they use for their flights from Windy Point when conditions are right.(Photo11: Dave Tomlin/Ruidoso News)

Parks and Rec Director Rodney Griego launches one of the first kites in the air Sunday to welcome festival participants and show them that the wind is waiting.(Photo11: Dave Tomlin/Ruidoso News)

Kites of all sizes and shapes were flying Sunday at the White Mountain Sports Complex, including this rainbow-colored clipper ship.(Photo11: Dave Tomlin/Ruidoso News)

One of the most colorful flyers at the Kite Festival Sunday featured a unique tail design.(Photo11: Courtesy/Joseph Darsey)

Scores of parents and kids of all ages came Sunday to the village Parks and Recreation Department's Ruidoso Kite Festival. The wind varied in strength and direction, but there were long intervals when even the smallest kites in the hands of novice kite flyers went up with ease and stayed aloft without effort. For moments when the breeze died down, there were refreshments and bouncy houses for all.

Organizers said more than 200 kite enthusiasts turned out for the fun.

Tucker Davis of Ruidoso and some friends did some demonstrations with their paragliders. Kite hobbyists from Roswell and Las Cruces did kite flight demonstrations with their home built kites. Tim Coughlin and his wife Lori from the Boys & Girls Club were among volunteers who helped the kids assemble and decorate kites which were for sale at the event.